Andrew Melville admits little chance of being fit for showdown with Serbia-Montenegro.

WALES stalwart Andrew Melville last night increased Mark Hughes' injury woes by admitting he faces little chance of being fit for the August 20 showdown with Serbia-Montenegro.

The admission by Melville comes amid news that John Hartson, already a major doubt for the Euro 2004 qualifier, has picked up a calf injury to go with his back trouble.

The calf problem, revealed by Hartson yesterday, means the Wales hitman is unlikely to feature in Celtic's Scottish league opener against Dunfermline - and makes the prospect of him turning up for the Serbia game slim.

That was a scenario Melville was also facing up to last night, the Fulham captain admitting his painful foot injury would take time to heal.

"At this stage I've got to admit I'm not looking good for our Premiership opener against Middlesbrough, nor for Wales," said a rueful Melville.

"I only started doing

some light jogging on Tuesday and the physios reckon it will be another 10 days before I can start full training again.

"The injury is an inflamed ligament under the foot which has given me a lot of pain whenever I put pressure on it. The only cure is rest.

"It's probably the worst time of the year to pick up such an awkward injury because pre-season is so important to a player - and I've missed every one of Fulham's games.

"I don't want to say I'm

definitely not available for Wales just yet, but at best it's touch and go.

"I will wait a while before telling Mark Hughes if I'm definitely out.

"I'm prepared to travel as a substitute if necessary ... I'd rather give Sparky the extra selection option, if there is any way possible."

Hartson's injury problems increased yesterday when he revealed the problem with his calf.

Already recovering from back surgery, Hartson said, "My calf has stiffened up a bit.

"I'm sure it will go quickly, but it's ruled me out of our Champions League game tonight.

"I really want to make it for the league opener on Saturday, but we'll just have to wait and see."

And Hughes last night heard he'd lost the services of Gareth Taylor - who had been a possible stand-in for Hartson - after the Burnley striker pulled out of the squad due to an eye injury.